MANILA, Philippines – Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte promised the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that its territory would "not be touched" should his bid for federalism succeed if he is elected.
The presidential candidate made the statement during a meeting with MILF leaders in Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao on Saturday, February 27.
This is in response to Ghadzali Jaafar, MILF vice chair for political affairs, who asked him, "How will you exactly come up with a peaceful solution to the problems of Mindanao?"
They were discussing the failure of Congress to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law.
The presidential candidate said his administration "will create a commission that will eventually come to a consensus."
He added: "I have been proposing federalism. But your territory will not be touched. It will be our collective position." (READ: Will federalism address PH woes? Pros and cons of making shift)
Duterte also plans to "create territories" for the Tausugs, the Sama, Iranuns, the Maranaos, and other indigenous peoples.
"Through federalism, we will correct the injustice committed against the Moro people, against Mindanao," he said.
Though Jaafar was apparently supportive of Duterte, he told journalists that the MILF Central Committee of the MILF will not endorse any candidate.
"Members of the MILF, their families and the members of the communities will be given their independence to choose whoever they want to choose," he said.
Duterte also said that he was not there "to campaign" but to present his proposal to resolve the Mindanao conflict and other problems hounding its people. – Rappler.com